Safety and comfort are the primary considerations in choosing the right car for our family. Wherever they go, whatever they do; we want our loved ones to be safe and comfy. That’s what being filial is all about.
But choosing the tender loving car could make you feel a bit headachy. To spare you the heady sensation but still ensuring the safety of your loved ones, bear in mind some important auto safety features. The next time you go shop, let the auto safety features guide your choice.
A recent study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that side airbags that provide torso protection reduced deaths by 26% in side-impact crashes. The same study also found that deaths were reduced by up to 37% when the vehicle was also equipped with side airbags that protect the head.
According to a report from J.D. Power and Associates, new-car buyers were most interested in two-stage “smart” airbags, which initially inflate with less pressure to better cushion passenger impact. After advanced airbags, consumers showed triggered considerable shoppers’ interest, rearview cameras that provide assistance while backing up, embraced the limelight.
MSNBC has compiled a list of ten features parents should consider when purchasing a new vehicle. It noted some cars are designed for comfort and convenience, like power doors and DVD systems, while others, such as advanced airbags and back-up cameras, enhance safety.
Back up cameras and sonar sensors that alert drivers of obstructions behind a vehicle add a measure of safety and convenience — especially with larger SUVs and minivans. Nearly half (49.5%) of children younger than 15 years old killed in the U.S. each year in non-traffic-related incidents with motor vehicles are backed over, often by a parent or family member, according to Kids and Cars, a non-profit that tracks incidents that occur on private property, as opposed to in traffic.
CNW Marketing Research of Bandon, Ore. added that besides safety features, spaciousness, load capacity, convenience features and comfort features are attributes that car buyers with three children per household consistently rank as most important for cars, minivans and SUVs.
Susan Morales, chief engineer of the GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave, designed GM’s “Smart Slide” feature, which allows second-row seats to fold and move forward for access to the third row. Saturn side marker is also an added safety benefit.
Becky Blanchard, brand manger for the Chrysler Town & Country minivan, which was dramatically redesigned for 2008, said power doors, dual-zone climate control and rear-seat DVD entertainment systems with wireless headphones are among the features that first appeared on minivans that are now found on other types of vehicles.
Volvo’s integrated child booster seat is also a big safety milestone. The system is a $495 option on the Volvo V70 and XC70. “Volvo believes a comfortable child, able to see outside above the beltline, results in less driver distraction and better child protection,” said Volvo spokesman Dan Johnston.
Careful with your auto choices; they could mean death.